In order to live permanently in the UK, your first step consists of clearing the Life in the UK Test. This is a computer-based test needed for anyone seeking Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK or naturalisation as a British citizen. The test is also known as the British Citizenship Test and was introduced by the British Government for those wishing to settle in the UK to learn about the British way of Life - the culture, traditions, way of life and more. The test is simple and easy and requires some basic knowledge.
Life in the UK Test duration
The Life in the UK test duration is for 45 minutes. During this time you are required to answer 24 multiple-choice questions. The pass percentage of this test is 75% which means you have to get 18 of the 24 questions right.
Chapter 1- Values and Principles of the UK
This chapter covers the fundamental rights and responsibilities of anyone who lives in the UK. It contains questions even on the British Citizenship test, requirements for becoming a permanent resident, the application process and the basic rights and responsibilities of any resident of the UK.
Chapter 2- What is the UK?
This chapter speaks about the countries which make up the Union and the phrases describing them. Questions like how many countries in Great Britain, United Kingdom countries list, what countries make up Great Britain, difference between England and Britain, Is England in Europe, when was England founded etc. It is a short chapter and easy for you to learn.
Chapter 3- A long and illustrious history
Learn about British History beginning from the Stone Age. It covers the various languages and religions which exercised their influence on the UK throughout the ages. You then learn about the development of the Church, monarchy and other aspects of the UK. The chapter also covers the Two World Wars and on the governments of the UK and devolution in Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland. Learn about the various Acts of Parliament. This is a date filled chapter and its important to remember all the important dates.
Chapter 4- A modern, thriving society
Learn about the culture and population of the UK. The chapter begins you by showing the various UK cities which you should identify in the test. Learn about the religious and ethnic groups and all the main festivals in the UK. The other points covered include British culture, Sports in the UK, and other aspects like poems, books, films, artists, authors, poets and other people of fame. You should also learn the extracts of poems provided and be able to recognise the famous landmarks when you finish this chapter.
Chapter 5- The UK government, law and your role
You will learn all about governance in the UK. The Monarchy, the Queen's role in government and her powers are some of the topics you would learn. You should learn all the info about the two houses of Parliament. There are topics regarding your rights to vote and stand for election.
Other topics include the role of the UK internationally and more on the Commonwealth, EU and more including their common laws, fundamental rights, policing and the courts of the UK.
You have to book your Life in the UK Test online a minimum of 3 days in advance. With 30 centres available throughout the UK, you can choose the one closest to where you live. Learn more on the test and how to prepare for it at the official handbook for the Life in the UK Test.